Vincent Lavenu
«A dual objective for the team»
«We have two objectives at the start of this Tour de France. First, we want to confirm our performance from last year in the general classification with Felix Gall. And second, we're also looking to win at least one stage. Sam Bennett will be one of our best chances in the sprint finishes, but we also have other riders who are capable of raising their arms in victory. I'm thinking of Dorian Godon and Paul Lapeira who, in the event of a small group finish, can use their speed to their advantage. We are ambitious, with a great team and a very good climber in Felix Gall. We have regularly achieved good results in the Tour de France, it's part of our identity, so we're going to fight for it with a strong and motivated team.»
Felix Gall
«There are higher expectations, but also more support from the team.»
«The goal is clear: the overall classification. Last year, the Tour de France went very well for me, with my eighth place overall. We always want to improve, so the goal is to get the best result possible. It's very difficult to win a stage in the Tour de France, but we have the team to do it, and the emotions of last year give me even more motivation. This year, the goal has been clear since the start of the season because I will be the leader, and that's a different responsibility. There are more expectations, but also more support from the team. I think we will have a very good team and a new challenge with the sprint finishes with Sam Bennett.»
Sam Bennett
«I can't wait to fight.»
«I am very happy to be back at the Tour de France after four years away. I would like to thank the team for this incredible opportunity. Returning to the Grande Boucle with a French team is a special feeling. Winning a stage for this team in the world's biggest race would be even more special! I have time to get into the race because the start is hilly. Nevertheless, every stage is important, the first opportunity will come after the opening weekend, and I hope to be ready for it. There should be eight bunch sprints with lots of contenders. I can't wait to fight for it.»
22
The figure
The number of stage victories in the Tour de France for the DECATHLON AG2R LA MONDIALE team since its first appearance in 1993. Last year, Felix Gall won the queen stage during the Saint-Gervais – Courchevel stage.
